July 5, 2014

I think the biggest challenge for leveraging technology in our school is access to computers. We have one computer cart that is shared by five teachers. When I do use the computer cart with my students, I plan assignments/projects that can be completed during a class time. I am torn about having students use their phones or tablets during class since I feel it divides my class into the haves and the have nots. As a result, I use students’ personal technology devises sparingly.

The other challenges I have for leveraging technology to empower my students’ learning, is my students’ access to the internet. For students to collaborate using Google docs or presentations, they need to have internet access at home. One of the neighborhoods that is part of our school has a community center that opens a computer lab in the evenings for students to complete their homework. Although this is a wonderful program, I am concerned about my students walking home in the dark. As a result, I provide a variety of project choices that include both technology and non-technology options so that all my students can complete their assignments.

My students’ access to technology impacts the ease with which they can get answers. I find that my students that do not have the access to computers and internet access at home are also students that are struggling to complete their homework on time. I provide morning and after school support for these students. However, this is a poor substitute for having full access at home.